CN117503488A

CN117503488A - Absorbent article with tab portions

Info

Publication number: CN117503488A
Application number: CN202311386059.4A
Authority: CN
Inventors: U·P·达拉尔; T·D·伦泽; J·米勒
Original assignee: Procter and Gamble Co
Current assignee: Procter and Gamble Co
Priority date: 2016-08-12
Filing date: 2017-08-11
Publication date: 2024-02-06
Also published as: EP3496691A1; US20210077306A1; JP2019524283A; JP2021090806A; US20180042777A1; US11642248B2; EP3496691B1; CN109475451A; WO2018031841A1

Abstract

An absorbent article includes a first waist region, a second waist region, and a crotch region disposed between the first waist region and the second waist region. The article further comprises a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet; and ear pieces. The ear panel includes a laminate having a first nonwoven and a second nonwoven and an elastomeric material sandwiched between the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven. The laminate includes a plurality of ultrasonic bonds. The ear panel also has a first inelastic zone and an elastic zone. The ear panel is joined to the chassis in a first inelastic zone and the fastening system is joined to the ear panel in an elastic zone.

Description

Absorbent article with tab portions

The present application is a divisional application based on patent application of application date 2017, month 11, priority date 2016, month 08, month 12, application number 201780044119.0, entitled "absorbent article with ear portions".

Technical Field

The present invention relates to absorbent articles having an ear portion, in particular a stretchable ear.

Background

It has long been known that absorbent articles, such as conventional absorbent articles (e.g., diapers, adult incontinence articles, feminine hygiene pads) provide the benefit of receiving and containing urine and/or other bodily exudates (e.g., feces, menses, mixtures of feces and urine, mixtures of menses and urine, and the like). To effectively contain body exudates, the article should provide a snug fit around the waist and legs of the wearer.

Manufacturers often use extensible regions such as stretch side panels (i.e., ears) within the article to help achieve a snug fit. When worn, the stretch tabs extend the article around the hips and waist of the wearer to anchor the product in use, while still allowing the wearer to comfortably move about. The fastening system is typically joined to the ear panels to further secure the product around the wearer. The stretch ear panels are typically laminates of cover material (such as nonwoven) and elastomeric material. Laminates can be made by a variety of methods to achieve the desired stretch properties. For example, the nonwoven and elastomeric material may be joined by an adhesive and then activated. During lamination, the nonwoven and elastic layers may be joined with about zero relative strain (i.e., the two layers are not strained to a greater extent than the other layer). The zero strain laminate is activated by a mechanical strain process that creates a separation or deformation in the nonwoven, thus making the laminate elastically extensible. While activated ears may provide high stretch properties, the activation process typically requires extensible nonwovens, an activated friendly adhesive, and Gao Jichong or very strong elastic materials to ensure that highly stretchable ears are obtained.

Another method of forming a stretched ear is extrusion lamination, in which an elastomeric material is extruded and bonded to a nonwoven or other cover material immediately after extrusion, and no adhesive is used. To provide stretch properties, the elastomeric material may be stretched prior to bonding the elastomeric material to the nonwoven, or the nonwoven may be altered in a manner that provides extensibility. Stretched laminates made using such processes can be expensive because they require the use of elastomeric materials across the width of the laminate.

Ultrasonic bonding has been proposed to produce stretch laminates. In such cases, the elastomeric material may be stretched and then combined with the nonwoven via ultrasonic bonding while in the stretched state. These laminates can produce highly stretchable ears (depending on the level of stretch imparted in the elastomeric material) while avoiding the use of gums and mechanical activation. Furthermore, unlike extrusion lamination, the elastomeric material need not extend across the entire width of the laminate.

However, the ultrasonically bonded tabs lack the strength of other tabs. During application, if the tab lacks the necessary strength, the tab itself may fracture, the fastener may disengage from the tab, and/or the tab may disengage from the remainder of the article. Such failures render the article itself unusable. Furthermore, fastening systems in combination with stretch tabs may increase the likelihood of product failure. In use, the stretch tabs tend to roping (or necking) and collapse in height due to their relatively low modulus compared to the relatively high modulus of the fastening system. The fastening system tends to bend inwards due to the roping of the stretch tabs. Roping results in reduced surface area coverage and less contact area for the stretched tabs to frictionally lock onto the wearer's body, and bending of the fastening system causes discomfort and strain on the wearer.

Thus, there remains a need for a stretch ear panel having desirable stretch properties balanced with adequate strength. Also, there is a need for a combined tab/fastening system that provides proper fit and flexibility and minimizes undesirable roping. There is also a need to reduce cost and increase efficiency in the production of stretch ear laminates.

Disclosure of Invention

In one embodiment, an absorbent article includes a first waist region, a second waist region, and a crotch region disposed between the first waist region and the second waist region. The article further comprises a chassis having a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet; and ear pieces. The ear panel includes a laminate having a first nonwoven and a second nonwoven and an elastomeric material sandwiched between the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven. The laminate includes a plurality of ultrasonic bonds. The ear panel also includes a first inelastic zone and an elastic zone. The ear panel is joined to the chassis in a first inelastic zone. The fastening system is joined to the ear panel in the elastic region.

In another embodiment, an absorbent article includes a first waist region, a second waist region, and a crotch region disposed between the first waist region and the second waist region. The article further comprises a chassis having a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet; and ear pieces. The ear panel includes a laminate having a first nonwoven and a second nonwoven and an elastomeric material sandwiched between the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven. The laminate includes a plurality of ultrasonic bonds. The first nonwoven and the second nonwoven each have a basis weight of 17gsm or less. The ear panel has an average breaking load of 18N or greater.

In another embodiment, an absorbent article includes a first waist region, a second waist region, and a crotch region disposed between the first waist region and the second waist region. The article further includes a chassis having a topsheet, a backsheet, and a chassis disposed between the topsheet and the backsheetAn absorbent core between the sheets; and ear pieces. The ear panel includes a laminate having a first nonwoven and a second nonwoven and an elastomeric material sandwiched between the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven. The laminate includes a plurality of ultrasonic bonds. The ear panel comprises at least 1m ³ /m ² The "air permeability value" of/min and the "length ratio" of about 3 or less.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary absorbent article according to one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. The absorbent article is shown in a flat, uncontracted state.

Fig. 2 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary ear according to one non-limiting embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary ear according to one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 4 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary ear according to one non-limiting embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the ear panel of fig. 4 taken along a lateral centerline of the ear panel.

Fig. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary ear according to another non-limiting embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 7 is a graph showing the extension (mm) versus load (N) of an exemplary tab.

Fig. 8 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary bond pattern according to one non-limiting embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 9 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary tab shape according to one non-limiting embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a graph showing the "average breaking load" (N) and associated trend lines for a tab having a basis weight and shape in accordance with a non-limiting example of the present invention.

Fig. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a package according to one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 12 is a schematic perspective view of a clamp suitable for use with the "tensile test method" herein.

FIG. 13 is a schematic side elevation view of a clamp suitable for use with the "tensile test method" herein.

Detailed Description

Definition of the definition

With respect to absorbent articles, "disposable" means absorbent articles that are not generally intended to be laundered or otherwise restored or reused as an absorbent article (i.e., they are intended to be discarded after a single use and, preferably, to be recycled, composted or otherwise discarded in an environmentally compatible manner).

"absorbent article" refers to devices that absorb and contain body exudates and, more specifically, refers to devices that are placed against or in proximity to the body of the wearer to absorb and contain the various exudates discharged from the body. Exemplary absorbent articles include diapers, training pants, pull-on pant diapers (i.e., a diaper having a preformed waist opening and leg openings such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,120,487), refastenable diapers or pant-type diapers, incontinence briefs and undergarments, diaper holders and liners, feminine hygiene garments such as panty liners, absorbent inserts, and the like.

"activation" is the mechanical deformation of a plastically extensible material that results in permanent elongation of the extensible material or a portion of the extensible material in the activation direction in the X-Y plane of the material. For example, activation occurs when a web or a portion of a web is subjected to a pressure that causes the material to strain beyond the onset of plasticity, which may or may not include complete mechanical failure of the material or portion of the material. Activation of a laminate comprising an elastic material joined to a plastically extensible material typically results in permanent deformation of the plastic material while the elastic material returns substantially to its original dimensions. Activation processes are disclosed, for example, in U.S. patent publication 2013/0082418, U.S. patent 5,167,897, and U.S. patent 5,993,432.

"body-facing" and "garment-facing" refer to the relative position of an element or the relative position of a surface of an element or group of elements, respectively. "body facing" means that the element or surface is closer to the wearer than some other element or surface during wear. "garment-facing" refers to an element or surface that is farther from the wearer during wear than some other element or surface (i.e., an element or surface that is closer to the garment of the wearer, which may be worn on a disposable absorbent article).

"longitudinal" refers to a direction extending substantially perpendicularly from one waist edge of the article to the opposite waist edge and generally parallel to the largest linear dimension of the article. Directions within 45 degrees of the longitudinal direction are considered to be "longitudinal".

"lateral" refers to a direction extending from one longitudinal edge of the article to the opposite longitudinal edge and generally at right angles to the longitudinal direction. Directions within 45 degrees of lateral are considered "lateral".

By "disposed" is meant that the element is positioned at a particular location or position.

"joined" refers to such configurations: wherein one element is directly secured to another element by attaching the element directly to the other element; it also refers to such configurations: wherein an element is indirectly secured to another element by attaching the element to an intermediate member which in turn is attached to the other element.

"film" refers to a sheet-like material in which the length and width of the material far exceeds the thickness of the material (e.g., 10 times, 50 times, or even 1000 times or more). The membrane is generally impermeable to liquids, but may be configured to be breathable.

"laminate" means two or more materials bonded to each other by any suitable method known in the art, such as adhesive bonding, thermal bonding, ultrasonic bonding, or high pressure bonding using a non-heated or heated patterned roll.

"nonwoven" means a porous fibrous material made from continuous (long) filaments (fibers) and/or discontinuous (short) filaments (fibers) by processes such as spunbonding, meltblowing, air-laying, carding, coform, hydroentangling, and the like. The nonwoven material does not have a woven filament or a pattern of woven filaments. The nonwoven material may be liquid permeable or impermeable.

"relaxed" means a resting state of an element, material or component in which there is substantially no external force acting on the element other than gravity.

"elastic," "elastomeric," and "elastically extensible" mean that a material is capable of being stretched at least 100% in one of the directions without breaking or fracturing under a given load according to the "hysteresis test" described herein, and that the elastic material or component exhibits at least 80% recovery (i.e., has a set of less than 20%) upon release of the load. The tensile is sometimes referred to as strain, percent strain, engineering strain, stretch ratio, or elongation, which, along with recovery and set, may each be determined according to the "hysteresis test" described in more detail below. Materials that are not elastic are referred to as inelastic.

By "extensible" is meant that the material is capable of being stretched or elongated by at least 50% without breaking or fracturing according to step 5 (a) of the "hysteresis test" herein (substituting the specified 100% strain for 50% strain).

Absorbent article

Fig. 1 is a plan view of an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment of an absorbent article 10 of the present invention in a flat, uncontracted state. The body facing surface 115 of the absorbent article 10 faces the viewer. The absorbent article 10 includes a longitudinal centerline 100 and a lateral centerline 110.

The absorbent article 10 includes a chassis 20. The absorbent article 10 and chassis 20 are shown as having a first waist region 14, a second waist region 18 opposite the first waist region 14, and a crotch region 16 located between the first waist region 14 and the second waist region 18. The waist regions 14 and 18 generally comprise those portions of the absorbent article 10 that, when worn, encircle the waist of the wearer. The waist regions 14 and 18 may include elastic members 55 such that they gather about the waist of the wearer to provide improved fit and containment. The crotch region 16 is that portion of the absorbent article 10 which, when the absorbent article 10 is worn, is generally positioned between the legs of the wearer.

The outer periphery of the chassis 20 is defined by the longitudinal edge 12 and the waist edge (the first waist edge 13 in the first waist region 14 and the second waist edge 19 in the second waist region 18). The chassis 20 may have opposing longitudinal edges 12 oriented generally parallel to the longitudinal centerline 100. However, to achieve better fit, the longitudinal edges 12 may be curved or angled to create an article that is "hourglass" shaped when viewed in plan, for example, as shown in fig. 1. The chassis 20 may have opposite lateral edges 13,19 (i.e., a first waist edge 13 and a second waist edge 19) oriented generally parallel to the lateral centerline 110.

The chassis 20 may include a liquid permeable topsheet 24, a backsheet 26, and an absorbent core 28 between the topsheet 24 and the backsheet 26. The topsheet 24 may be joined to the core 28 and/or backsheet 26. The backsheet 26 may be joined to the core 28 and/or the topsheet 24. It should be appreciated that other structures, elements, or substrates may also be positioned between the core 28 and the topsheet 24 and/or backsheet 26. In some embodiments, the acquisition-distribution system 27 is disposed between the topsheet 26 and the absorbent core 28.

In certain embodiments, the chassis 20 comprises the primary structure of the absorbent article 10, which, along with the added other features, forms a composite absorbent article structure. While the topsheet 24, backsheet 26, and absorbent core 28 may be assembled in a variety of well-known configurations, the configuration of absorbent articles is generally described in the following patents: U.S. Pat. nos. 3,860,003;5,151,092;5,221,274;5,554,145;5,569,234;5,580,411; and 6,004,306.

Top sheet：

The topsheet 24 is generally a portion of the absorbent article 10 that may be positioned at least partially in contact with or in close proximity to the wearer. A suitable topsheet 24 may be manufactured from a wide range of materials such as porous foams; a reticulated foam; a perforated plastic film; or woven or nonwoven webs of natural fibers (e.g., wood or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester or polypropylene fibers), or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. The topsheet 24 is generally compliant, soft feeling, and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. Typically, at least a portion of the topsheet 24 is liquid permeable, allowing liquid to readily penetrate through the thickness of the topsheet 24. One topsheet 24 useful herein is available from BBA Fiberweb (Brentwood, TN) under the vendor code 055SLPV 09U. The topsheet 24 may be apertured.

Any portion of the topsheet 24 may be coated with a lotion or skin care composition, as is known in the art. Non-limiting examples of suitable lotions include those described in the following patents: U.S. Pat. nos. 5,607,760, 5,609,587;5,635,191; and 5,643,588. The topsheet 24 may be fully or partially elasticized or may be foreshortened so as to provide a void space between the topsheet 24 and the core 28. Exemplary structures including elasticized or foreshortened topsheets are described in more detail in the following patents: U.S. Pat. nos. 4,892,536, 4,990,147;5,037,416; and 5,269,775.

Absorbent core：

The absorbent core 28 may comprise a wide variety of liquid absorbent materials commonly used in disposable diapers and other absorbent articles. Examples of suitable absorbent materials include comminuted wood pulp, which is generally referred to as airfelt creped cellulose wadding; meltblown polymers, including coform meltblown polymers; chemically stiffened, modified or crosslinked cellulosic fibers; tissue, including tissue wraps and tissue laminates; an absorbent foam; absorbing the sponge; a superabsorbent polymer; an absorbent gelling material; or any other known absorbent material or combination of materials. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the absorbent core is substantially cellulose free and comprises less than 10% cellulose fibers, less than 5% cellulose fibers, less than 1% cellulose fibers, no more than an insignificant amount of cellulose fibers or no cellulose fibers by weight. It should be appreciated that the non-significant amount of cellulosic material does not substantially affect at least one of the thinness, flexibility, and absorbency of the portion of the absorbent core that is substantially free of cellulose. Among other benefits, it is believed that when at least a portion of the absorbent core is substantially cellulose free, that portion of the absorbent core is significantly thinner and more flexible than a similar absorbent core comprising more than 10% by weight of cellulose fibers. The amount of absorbent material, such as absorbent particulate polymer material, present in the absorbent core may vary, but in certain embodiments the absorbent particulate polymer material is present in the absorbent core in an amount greater than about 80% by weight of the absorbent core, or greater than about 85% by weight of the absorbent core, or greater than about 90% by weight of the absorbent core, or greater than about 95% by weight of the core. In some embodiments, the absorbent core may include one or more channels 29, wherein the channels are substantially free of absorbent particulate polymer material. The slot 29 may extend longitudinally or laterally. The absorbent core may also comprise two or more channels. The channels may be straight, curved, angled, or any feasible combination thereof. In one non-limiting example, the two channels are symmetrically disposed about the longitudinal axis.

Exemplary absorbent structures for use as the absorbent core 28 are described in the following patents: U.S. Pat. nos. 4,610,678, 4,673,402;4,834,735;4,888,231;5,137,537;5,147,345;5,342,338;5,260,345;5,387,207;5,397,316 and U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 13/491,642 and 15/232,901.

Negative film：

The backsheet 26 is generally positioned such that it may be at least a portion of the garment-facing surface of the absorbent article 10. The backsheet 26 may be designed to prevent exudates absorbed by the absorbent article 10 and contained within the absorbent article 10 from soiling articles that may contact the absorbent article 10, such as bedsheets and undergarments. In certain embodiments, the backsheet 26 is substantially water-impermeable. Suitable materials for backsheet 26 include films such as those manufactured by Tredegar Industries inc (Terre Haute, IN) and sold under the trade names X15306, X10962 and X10964. Other suitable materials for the backsheet 26 may include breathable materials that permit vapors to escape from the absorbent article 10 while still preventing exudates from passing through the backsheet 26. Exemplary breathable materials may include materials such as woven webs, nonwoven webs, composite materials such as film-coated nonwoven webs, and microporous films such as those manufactured by Mitsui Toatsu co. (Japan) under the names ESPOIR NO and EXXON Chemical co. (Bay City, TX) under the name EXXAIRE. Suitable breathable composite materials comprising polymer blends are available under the name HYTREL blend P18-3097 from Clopay Corporation (Cincinnati, OH). Such breathable composites are described in more detail in PCT application WO 95/16746 and U.S. patent 5,865,823. Other breathable backsheets including nonwoven webs and apertured formed films are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,571,096. Exemplary suitable backsheets are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,107,537. Other suitable materials and/or manufacturing techniques may be used to provide a suitable backsheet 26 including, but not limited to, surface treatment, specific film selection and processing, specific filament selection and processing, and the like.

The backsheet 26 may also be composed of more than one layer. The backsheet 26 may include an outer cover and an inner layer. The outer cover may be made of a soft nonwoven material. The inner layer may be made of a substantially liquid impermeable film, such as a polymeric film. The outer cover and inner layer may be joined together by adhesive or any other suitable material or method. A particularly suitable outer cover is available from Corovin GmbH (Peine, germany) under the supplier code a18AH0, and a particularly suitable inner layer is available from RKW Gronau GmbH (Gronau, germany) under the supplier code PGBR4 WPR. While various backsheet configurations are contemplated herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Tab/fastener：

The absorbent article 10 may include one or more ears 30, including, for example, front ears 32 disposed in the first waist region and/or back ears 34 disposed in the second waist region. The ear panels 30 may be integral with the chassis or may be discrete elements joined to the chassis 20 at chassis attachment bonds 35, which may join one or more layers of the ear panels in the chassis. The ears 30 may be extensible or elastic. The tab 30 may be formed from the following materials: one or more nonwoven webs, woven webs, knitted fabrics, polymeric and elastomeric films, apertured films, sponges, foams, scrims, or combinations and/or laminates of any of the foregoing.

As shown in FIG. 2, the ear panel may include an outer edge 36 and an inner edge 38. The outboard edge 36 is the free distal longitudinal edge of the tab when the tab is joined to the chassis 20. The inboard edge 38 is substantially opposite the outboard edge and is joined to or overlaps the chassis when the ear is joined to the chassis. The inboard edge includes a length Li. The tab may further include a first lateral side 40 and an opposing second lateral side 42, and a lateral centerline 43 that is generally parallel to the lateral centerline 110 of the article when the tab is joined to the article. The ear panel may additionally include a maximum width W extending between the lateral edge and the medial edge and a maximum length L extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side. In some embodiments, the maximum length is the length Li of the inside edge.

In some embodiments, the ear panels 30 may include an elastomer such that the ear panels are stretchable. In certain embodiments, the ear panel 30 may be formed from a stretch laminate, such as a nonwoven/elastomeric material laminate or a nonwoven/elastomeric material/nonwoven laminate, which also results in the ear panel being stretchable. The ears 30 may be laterally extensible. In some embodiments, the ear panels are elastic in the lateral direction. In further embodiments, the ears 30 may extend more laterally than longitudinally. Alternatively, the tabs may extend more longitudinally than laterally.

In some embodiments, the ear panel comprises a laminate of a first nonwoven 300 and an elastomeric layer 304. In certain embodiments shown in fig. 3, the ear panel comprises a first nonwoven 300, a second nonwoven 302, and an elastomeric layer 304. The elastomeric layer 304 may be sandwiched between the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven. Additional layers (e.g., additional nonwoven, inelastic material, elastic material or extensible material, etc.) may be included.

Any suitable nonwoven may be used for the ear panel 30. Suitable nonwoven webs may include a basis weight of at least about 8gsm, or less than about 22gsm, or about 17gsm or less, or about 10gsm to about 17gsm, with 1gsm increments for each of the ranges listed. Generally, a lower basis weight nonwoven reduces the overall strength of the ear. However, the inventors have found that an ear panel designed according to the principles herein can achieve high strength despite the lower basis weight of the nonwoven fabric.

The nonwoven web may be formed by direct extrusion, during which the fibers and web are formed at about the same point in time; or by preformed fibers laid into the web at a significantly later point in time. Exemplary direct extrusion processes include, but are not limited to: spunbond, meltblown, solvent spun, electrospinning, and combinations thereof, typically forming layers.

As used herein, the term "spunbond fibers" refers to small diameter fibers formed by extruding molten thermoplastic material (e.g., filaments) as filaments from a plurality of fine tube spinnerets, which are generally circular. Spunbond fibers are quenched and generally not tacky when they are deposited onto a collecting surface. Spunbond fibers are generally continuous.

As used herein, the term "meltblown fibers" refers to fibers formed by the process of: the molten thermoplastic material is extruded into a plurality of fine molded microtubes, typically circular, into molten filaments or filaments into converging high velocity air (e.g., air) streams that attenuate the filaments of molten thermoplastic material to reduce their diameter. Thereafter, the meltblown fibers are carried by the high velocity gas stream and are deposited on a collecting surface to form a web of randomly dispersed meltblown fibers.

Exemplary "web forming" processes include wet-forming and dry-forming. Exemplary dry-laid processes include, but are not limited to, air-laid, carding, and combinations thereof that generally form a layer. Combinations of the above methods produce nonwovens, commonly referred to as hybrid materials or composite materials. Exemplary combinations include, but are not limited to, spunbond-meltblown-spunbond (SMS), spunbond-carded web (SC), spunbond-air-laid (SA), meltblown-air-laid (MA), and combinations thereof, which are generally layered. The combination including the direct extrusion process may be combined at about the same point in time as the direct extrusion process (e.g., spin forming and coforming for SA and MA) or at a later point in time. In the above examples, one or more individual layers may be created by each method. For example, SMS may refer to a three-layer 'SMS' web, a five-layer 'ssmms' web, or any reasonable variation thereof, wherein the lower case letters represent the individual layers and the upper case letters represent the compilation of similar, adjacent layers. The fibers in the nonwoven web are typically joined to one or more adjacent fibers at some of the overlap joints. This includes bonding the fibers within each layer, and when more than one layer is present, bonding the fibers from layer to layer. The fibers may be joined by mechanical braiding, chemical bonding, or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the nonwoven fabric may be an unbonded nonwoven web, an electrospun nonwoven web, a flash spun nonwoven web (e.g., TYVEKTM manufactured by DuPont), or a combination thereof. These fabrics may include fibers of the following: polyolefin such as polypropylene or polyethylene, polyester, polyamide, polyurethane, elastomer, rayon, cellulose, copolymers thereof, or blends thereof or mixtures thereof. The nonwoven fabric may also comprise fibers of a uniform structure or comprise bicomponent structures such as sheath/core, side-by-side, islands-in-the-sea, and other bicomponent configurations. For a detailed description of some nonwovens, see e.a. vaughn, et al, "Nonwoven Fabric Primer and Reference Sampler", nonwoven industries association-3 rd edition (1992).

The nonwoven fabric may comprise fibers or may be made from fibers having a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the substantially non-circular fibers. By substantially non-circular is meant that the ratio of the longest axis of the cross-section to the shortest axis of the cross-section is at least about 1.1. The ratio of the longest axis of the cross-section to the shortest axis of the cross-section may be about 1.1, about 1.2, about 1.5, about 2.0, about 3.0, about 6.0, about 10.0, or about 15.0. In some embodiments, the ratio may be at least about 1.2, at least about 1.5, or at least about 2.0. The ratio may be, for example, no more than about 3.0, no more than about 6.0, no more than about 10.0, or no more than about 15.0. The cross-section perpendicular to the fiber longitudinal axis of the substantially non-circular fibers may be rectangular in shape (e.g., with rounded corners), also referred to as "flat" fibers, with a trilobal or oblong (e.g., oval) cross-section. These substantially non-circular fibers may provide a larger surface area to bond to the elastomeric fibers than nonwoven fabrics with fibers having circular cross-sections. This increase in surface area may increase the bond strength between the fibers and the substrate.

Softness of the nonwoven is often associated with the feel. Soft or silky feel is often preferred over rough textures. Various methods may be used to deliver a silky feel.

In one method, the nonwoven web can be made from bicomponent fibers or multicomponent fibers. One of the components of the fiber, preferably the outer component, is a soft polymer such as polyethylene or an elastomeric polyolefin, polyurethane. For example, in sheath/core bicomponent fibers, the sheath may be made of polyethylene and the core may be made of polypropylene.

In another method, the nonwoven web may be made from monocomponent fibers. However, the fibers are made from a polymer blend to impart a silky soft feel. For example, the polypropylene nonwoven may be roughened. However, when combined with elastomeric polypropylene (ex xon) When blended, it can help improve the feel of the fiber.

In another approach, the nonwoven web can be made from an elastomeric polymer. For example, elastomeric polyolefins are used for fiber spinning and to make nonwoven webs. Such webs have the very soft touch, and elastic properties often desired for consumer products.

In another method, additives may be added to the polymer prior to spinning the fiber. During fiber spinning and subsequent process steps to make a nonwoven web, the additives migrate to the fiber surface to provide a silky feel. Amine and amide based additives are typically used up to 5% to impart softness.

In another method, a lubricious chemical finish may be applied to the fibers or nonwoven web. Chemical finishes based on oils, silicones, esters, fatty acids, surfactants, and the like may be employed. Softeners such as anionic, cationic or nonionic may also be used to improve drape and feel. The finish may be applied using a variety of coating techniques, such as roll coating, screen coating, gravure coating, slot coating, spray coating.

In another approach, the diameter of the nonwoven fibers may be reduced to create fine denier fibers and provide a silky feel. Meltblown fibers are a technique used to reduce the diameter of the fibers to less than 20 microns. Alternatively, nanofibers having a diameter of less than 1 micron, which are made from the polymer composition disclosed in patent US8835709 by a melt film fibrillation process, can be used to provide softness.

Drape is another measure of softness. The material's bending or compliance without any external forces and under its own weight conveys softness. It can be affected by a variety of factors such as fiber chemical composition, thickness, nonwoven bonding pattern, and combinations thereof. Compliance or drape is related to bending stiffness, which is related to the material's inherent modulus of elasticity and thickness. It has proven advantageous to have a nonwoven with a minimum bending stiffness and a maximum bending stiffness, since for example when the nonwoven is used for contour matching, as in medical and hygiene articles, too hard a material would be undesirable. Polyolefin resins having a lower elastic modulus and/or lower crystallinity allow for lower flexural rigidity. The lower modulus material (elastomer) can be blended with conventional fiber-making polyolefin resins to make lower modulus fibers. Optimizing bonding may also change the flexural rigidity of the web in the desired direction. Bonds having a larger longitudinal to lateral aspect ratio provide better drape along the lateral dimension while providing adequate stiffness and strength for web handling. Another factor affecting drape is the thickness of the web. The thicker the web, the less flexible or pliable. By combining the appropriate thickness with the fiber chemistry or bonding pattern, better drape can be achieved while delivering processing-suitable properties to the web.

In a non-limiting example, the nonwoven fabric includes a meltblown layer. Additionally or alternatively, the nonwoven fabric may include a spunbond layer. In one non-limiting example, the nonwoven fabric includes two or more spunbond layers. In further non-limiting examples, the one or more nonwovens may include SMS configurations. Alternatively, one or more of the nonwovens in the ear panel may lack a meltblown layer. Although meltblown layers have been found to enhance bonding in the ear panels where adhesive is desired (the inhibition of diffusion of adhesive in porous nonwoven structures by a given meltblown layer), meltblown layers often lack strength. In some embodiments, the nonwoven consists essentially of a spunbond layer. In some non-limiting examples, the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven each comprise at least 2 spunbond layers, or 3 or more spunbond layers.

Where the ear panel 30 comprises more than one nonwoven, the nonwoven may comprise the same basis weight or different basis weights. Also, the nonwoven may comprise the same layer structure or different layer structures. In addition, the nonwoven in the ear panel may also include the same or different features of the nonwoven in the backsheet, topsheet, leg gasketing system, and/or waist structure.

The elastomeric layer 304 includes one or more elastomeric materials that provide elasticity to at least a portion of the layer 304. Non-limiting examples of elastomeric materials include films (e.g., polyurethane films, films derived from rubber and/or other polymeric materials), elastomeric coatings applied to another substrate (e.g., hot melt elastomers, elastomeric adhesives, printed elastomers or elastomers co-extruded to another substrate), elastomeric nonwovens, scrims, and the like. The elastomeric material may be formed from elastomeric polymers, including polymers comprising: styrene derivatives, polyesters, polyurethanes, polyetherimides, polyolefins, combinations thereof; or any suitable known elastomer, including but not limited to co-extrusionExemplary elastomers and/or elastomeric materials are disclosed in U.S. patent 8,618,350;6,410,129;7,819,853;8,795,809;7,806,883;6,677,258 and U.S. patent publication 2009/0258210. Commercially available elastomeric materials include KRATON (styrene Block copolymer; available from Kraton Chemical Company (Houston, TX)); SEPTON (styrene block copolymer; available from Kuraray America, inc. (New York, NY)); VECTOR (styrene Block copolymer; available from TSRC Dexco Chemical Company (Houston, TX)); ESTANE (polyurethane; available from Lubrizol, inc., ohio); PEBAX (polyether block amide; available from Arkema Chemicals (Philadelphia, pa.); HYTREL (polyester; available from DuPont (Wilmington, DE)); VISTAMAXX (blends of homo-and random copolymers, and random copolymers available from EXXON Mobile (Spring, TX)) and VERSIFY (blends of homo-and random copolymers, and random copolymers available from Dow Chemical Company (Midland, michigan)).

In a non-limiting example, the elastomeric layer 304 includes a film. The film may comprise a single layer or multiple layers. The membrane may be laterally elastic. The elastomeric layer may include a width Y, as shown, for example, in fig. 2. In some embodiments, Y is at least about 10mm less than the width W of the tab 30. The elastomeric layer may have the same longitudinal dimension as the tab 30 along with the width of the elastomeric layer, or a longitudinal dimension less than the longitudinal length of the tab at any point along with the width of the elastomeric layer. In some embodiments, the elastomeric layer may have a basis weight of about 5 to about 150gsm, or about 10 to about 100gsm, or less than about 150gsm, with each 5gsm delta for each range listed.

As also shown in FIG. 2, the ear panel 30 may include an elastic region 306. The elastic region 306 is generally defined by the perimeter of the elastomeric material 304. In the elastic region, the ear panel is elastically extensible. In some embodiments, the area of the elastic region comprises at least about 20%, or about 30% to about 80%, of the total area of the ear, with each 5% increase being recited for that range. In further embodiments, Y (i.e., the maximum width of the elastomeric layer) is at least about 20%, or about 25% to about 85%, or about 35% to about 80%, of the total tab width W, with each 5% increment being recited for each range. The ear panel further comprises one or more inelastic regions. In certain embodiments, the ear panel 30 includes a first inelastic zone 308 extending laterally outward from the medial edge 38 and adjacent to the elastic zone 306 at the first elastomeric material edge 307. The ear panel can further include a second inelastic zone 310 that can extend laterally inward from the lateral edge 36 and can be adjacent to the elastic zone 306 at a second elastomeric material edge 309. The first inelastic zone and the second inelastic zone can be made of the same material) or different materials.

Turning to fig. 4, in certain embodiments, the ear panel 30 comprises a gathered laminate 44 wherein one of the layers is strained to a greater extent than the remaining layers during lamination. In this way, when the laminate 44 is in a relaxed state, the less extensible layers (i.e., the nonwovens 300, 302) will form gathers. In some embodiments, during lamination, the elastomeric layer is strained when the nonwoven is in a relaxed state. The elastomeric layer may be stretched in one or more directions. Then corrugations are formed in the nonwoven layer when the subsequently formed laminate 44 is in a relaxed state. In a non-limiting example, the elastomeric layer is stretched in a direction corresponding to the lateral direction of the article. In other words, when the ear panel is joined to the chassis after lamination, the ear panel laminate will be oriented such that the ear panel is stretchable in the lateral direction of the article. In another non-limiting example, the ear panel may also be stretched in the machine direction.

The laminate layers may be joined by one or more ultrasonic bonds 46, as shown in fig. 4. The ultrasonic bond may join the nonwoven layers through the elastomeric layer. The ultrasonically bonded laminate may be formed by the processes and/or equipment disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 62/374,010, 62/419,515.

In some embodiments, the laminate may lack an adhesive. In some non-limiting examples, the ear panel includes an adhesive bond only at the chassis attachment bond 35 and/or the fastener attachment bond 52 (discussed below).

The absorbent article 10 may also include a fastening system 48. When fastened, the fastening system 48 interconnects the first waist region 16 and the back waist region 18, resulting in a waist circumference that may encircle the wearer during wear of the absorbent article 10. The fastening system 48 may include fastening elements 50 such as tape tabs, hook-and-loop fastening components, interlocking fasteners such as tabs and slots, buckles, buttons, snaps, and/or hermaphroditic fastening components, although any other known fastening means are generally acceptable. The absorbent article may further comprise a landing zone for the fastening elements to engage and/or a release tape to protect the fastening elements from damage prior to use. Some exemplary surface fastening systems are disclosed in the following patents: U.S. Pat. nos. 3,848,594, 4,662,875;4,846,815;4,894,060;4,946,527;5,151,092; and 5,221,274. An exemplary interlocking fastening system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,432,098. In some embodiments, the fastening system 48 and/or the element 50 are foldable.

The fastening system 48 may be joined to any suitable portion of the article 10 by any suitable method. In some embodiments, the fastening system is joined to the ear panel 30 at a fastener attachment bond 52, as shown in fig. 4-6. The fastening system may be joined to the ear panel from layer to layer. The fastening system may be joined to the ear on an outer surface as shown, for example, in fig. 4. In one non-limiting example, the fastening system 48 and/or the fastening element 50 are mechanically bonded to the ear panel 30. In other non-limiting examples, the fastening system and/or fastening element may be ultrasonically bonded to the ear panel. The fastening attachment bond 52 includes a maximum length L1 measured parallel to the longitudinal centerline. The maximum length may be about 30mm or less, or about 28mm or less, or about 20mm to about 35mm, with each 1mm increment listed for that range.

It has been found that the ear formed from the gathered laminate bonded with ultrasound exhibits an overall strength that is less than a comparable ear formed by activation. In fact, the tab 30ZS formed by zero strain activation was compared with the tab 30US bonded with ultrasonic waves, as shown in fig. 7. Zero strain activation processes are further disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. nos. 5,167,897 and 5,156,793. The 30ZS sample was taken from the U.S. at month 7 of 2016 Size 3 product ear. The 30US ear piece comprises the same material as the 30ZS except that 30US does not comprise a glue. During lamination of 30US, the elastomeric layer was stretched as the nonwoven layer relaxed and ultrasonic bonding was used to join the layers. The 30US sample and the 30ZS sample have substantially the same dimensions. Using the present text"tensile test method" when tested using 1 "top grip (to better approximate the length of the fastening system attached to the ear) and 6" bottom grip, both ear laminates exhibited similar amounts of extension between 0N and 22N. However, the ultrasonically bonded ears tear near one-half of the breaking load (N), as shown in fig. 7. The construction of the laminate is believed to contribute to this difference. With the activated back ear laminate, the nonwoven breaks during the activation process. Thus, when the laminate is stretched during a "stretch test", the elastomeric film necks down (shortens in a direction perpendicular to the direction of elongation) and the broken nonwoven does not provide any resistance to such necking. Quite differently, the ultrasonically bonded ear panels have a substantially continuous nonwoven (in the lateral direction); the nonwoven thus resists necking of the elastomeric layer when stretched. Furthermore, because the film has been stretched during lamination of the ultrasonically bonded ear panel 30US, stretching during the "stretch test" does not result in necking at the same level as 30 ZS. The lack of necking and/or the substantially continuous nonwoven contributes to higher stress reinforcement at the outer side edges 36 of the ear. However, the inventors have found that designing an ultrasonically bonded ear panel in accordance with the teachings herein will result in increased strength even when lower basis weight nonwoven fabrics are utilized (e.g., 17gsm or less per nonwoven).

Returning to fig. 4-6, the fastening system 48 may be joined to the ear panel adjacent the outboard edge 36. The fastening system may be disposed in the second inelastic zone 310. In further embodiments, the fastening system 48 is engaged in the elastic region 306 of the tab. The inventors have found that engaging the fastening system to the ear in the elastic region 306 improves the overall strength of the ear/fastening system combination during use and/or application. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the break in the ear panel formed from the ultrasonically bonded laminate initially occurs near the outer side edge 36 in the inelastic zone because the intact nonwoven resists stretching of the elastomeric layer; and thus engaging the fastening system within the elastic region 306 reduces stress on the inelastic portion of the tab. In some embodiments, the fastening system 48 is engaged in the elastic region such that it overlaps the elastic region by a maximum lateral overlap distance D, as shown in fig. 6. In certain non-limiting examples, D can be about 0.05% to about 5%, or about 1% to about 5%, of Y (i.e., the maximum width of the elastic region), with each 0.02% increment listed for each range.

In further embodiments, the ear panel comprises a "length ratio" of about 3 or less, or about 2.95 or less, or about 1 to about 3, or about 1.75 to about 3, or about 1 to about 2.5, each.05 interval therein being recited for each range, as determined by the "tensile test method" herein. Forming the tab with such a "length ratio" reduces the likelihood of roping occurring within the tab. Furthermore, the specified "length ratio" also results in increased strength in the tab.

According to the "tensile test method" herein, the ear may comprise an "average breaking load" of 15N or greater, or 20N or greater, or 25N or greater, 30N or greater, or 40N or greater, or about 15N to about 45N, each 1N increment being recited for the range. The specified "average break load" value may be obtained even when the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven comprise a basis weight of about 17gsm or less, or about 14gsm or less, or about 12gsm or less, or about 8gsm to about 17gsm, with each 1gsm increment listed for the range. According to the "tensile testing method" herein, once engaged to the ear, the fastening system 48 may include a "average breaking load" of 24N or greater, or about 30N or greater, or about 17N to about 40N, with each 1N increment being recited for the range. The specified "average break load" value may be obtained even when the first nonwoven and/or the second nonwoven comprises a basis weight of about 17gsm or less, or about 14gsm or less, or about 12gsm or less, or about 8gsm to about 17gsm, with each 1gsm increment listed for the range.

In certain embodiments, the ear panel may comprise at least about 1m according to the "air permeability test methods" herein ³ /m ² /min, or about 2m ³ /m ² /min to about 125m ³ /m ² /min, or about 5m ³ /m ² /min to about 35m ³ /m ² "permeability value" of/min, each 2m of which is listed for each range ³ /m ² Increment/min.

Leg gasketing system：

Returning to fig. 1, the absorbent article 10 may include a leg gasketing system 70 attached to the chassis 20, which may include one or more cuffs 71. The leg gasketing system may include a pair of barrier leg cuffs 72. Each barrier leg cuff may be formed from a material piece that is bonded to the absorbent article such that it may extend upwardly from the wearer-facing surface of the absorbent article and provide improved containment of fluids and other body exudates near the junction of the torso and legs of the wearer. The barrier leg cuffs are defined by proximal edges and free end edges 75 joined directly or indirectly to the topsheet 24 and/or backsheet 26, which are intended to contact the skin of the wearer and form a seal. In some embodiments, the free end edge 75 includes a folded edge. The barrier leg cuffs 72 extend at least partially between the front waist edge 13 and the back waist edge 19 of the absorbent article on opposite sides of the longitudinal centerline 100 and are present at least in the crotch region. The barrier leg cuffs may be joined to the chassis of the article at the proximal edge by a bond, which may be made by gluing, fusion bonding, or a combination of other suitable bonding processes.

The barrier leg cuffs may be integral with the topsheet 24 or backsheet 26 or may be a separate material joined to the chassis of the article. Each barrier leg cuff 72 may comprise one, two or more elastic elements 55 adjacent to the free end edge 75 to provide a better seal.

In addition to the barrier leg cuff 72, the article may further comprise a gasketing cuff 76 that is joined to the chassis of the absorbent article, specifically to the topsheet 24 and/or backsheet 26, and is externally disposed with respect to the barrier leg cuff 72. The gasketing cuff 76 may provide a better seal around the wearer's thighs. The gasketing cuff may include a proximal edge and a free end edge 77. The free end edge 77 may include a folded edge. Each gasketing cuff may include one or more elastic elements 55 in the leg opening region between the topsheet 24 and the backsheet 26 in the chassis of the absorbent article. All or a portion of the barrier leg cuffs and/or gasketing cuffs may be treated with a lotion or another skin care composition.

In further embodiments, the leg gasketing system includes a barrier leg cuff integral with the gasketing cuff.

Suitable leg gasketing systems that may be part of an absorbent article are disclosed in U.S. patent application nos. 62/134,622, 14/077,708; us patent 8,939,957;3,860,003;7,435,243;8,062,279.

Elastic waist structure

The absorbent article 10 may include at least one elastic waist feature 80 that helps provide improved fit and containment, as shown in figure 1. The elastic waist feature 80 is generally intended to extend and contract to dynamically conform to the waist of the wearer. The elasticized waist feature comprises a waistband, a waist band having a pocket formed by a portion of the waist feature 80 of the release chassis 20, and a waist panel designed to fixedly fit about the abdomen of the wearer. Non-limiting examples of elasticized waist features are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/490,543;14/533,472; and 62/134,622. The waist feature 80 may be joined to the chassis 20 in the first waist region 14 and/or the second waist region 16. Waist features may be used in conjunction with the ears 30 to provide desirable stretch and flexibility for the article to properly fit on the wearer.

Examples of ear pieces：

Example 1 of the invention

Embodiment 1 of the present invention includes a first nonwoven fabric and a second nonwoven fabric, and an elastomer film interposed between the first nonwoven fabric and the second nonwoven fabric. The first nonwoven and the second nonwoven were each 17gsm SMS available from Avgol, USA under the trade name AVMN 1048007001. The nonwoven had an average basis weight of 169±0.6gsm, as measured by the "basis weight test method" herein. The elastomeric film was ElastiPro (TM) 4407 available from Clopay, USA and had a basis weight of 53.5±1.2 gsm. The film comprises a width of 45mm in relaxed state. The film was stretched 130% strain (i.e., 45mm was stretched to about 104mm, including 7mm dead (unstretched) zones on each side) and in its stretched state the width increased by about 4mm due to permanent deformation. In stretching the film as described above, the first nonwoven fabric and the second nonwoven fabric were ultrasonically bonded through the film using the bonding pattern shown in fig. 8 and an ultrasonic bonding pressure of 300N.

Example 2 of the invention

Embodiment 2 of the present invention includes a first nonwoven fabric and a second nonwoven fabric, and an elastomer film interposed between the first nonwoven fabric and the second nonwoven fabric. The first nonwoven and the second nonwoven were each 14gsm SMS available from Avgol, USA under the trade name AVMN 1050678001. The nonwoven had an average basis weight of 13.7±0.2gsm, as measured by the "basis weight test method" herein. The elastomeric film was ElastiPro (TM) 4407 available from Clopay, USA and had a basis weight of 53.5±1.2 gsm. The film comprises a width of 45mm in relaxed state. The film was stretched 130% strain (i.e., 45mm was stretched to about 104mm, including 7mm dead zones on each side), and in its stretched state, the width increased by about 4mm due to permanent deformation. In stretching the film as described above, the first nonwoven fabric and the second nonwoven fabric were ultrasonically bonded through the film using the bonding pattern shown in fig. 8 and an ultrasonic bonding pressure of 300N.

Example 3 of the invention

Embodiment 3 of the present invention includes a first nonwoven fabric and a second nonwoven fabric, and an elastomer film interposed between the first nonwoven fabric and the second nonwoven fabric. The first nonwoven and the second nonwoven were each 10gsm SMS available from Avgol, israel under the trade name AVTI 1028419002. The nonwoven had an average basis weight of 10.6±0.1gsm, as measured by the "basis weight test method" herein. The elastomeric film was ElastiPro (TM) 4407 available from Clopay, USA and had a basis weight of 53.5±1.2 gsm. The film comprises a width of 45mm in relaxed state. The film was stretched 130% strain (i.e., 45mm was stretched to about 104mm, including 7mm dead zones on each side), and in its stretched state, the width increased by about 4mm due to permanent deformation. In stretching the film as described above, the first nonwoven fabric and the second nonwoven fabric were ultrasonically bonded through the film using the bonding pattern shown in fig. 8 and an ultrasonic bonding pressure of 300N.

Example 4 of the invention

Embodiment 4 of the present invention includes a first nonwoven fabric and a second nonwoven fabric, and an elastomer film interposed between the first nonwoven fabric and the second nonwoven fabric. The first nonwoven and the second nonwoven were each 12gsm SSS available from FQN, USA under the trade name XA 0048483. The nonwoven had an average basis weight of 12.9±0.3gsm, as measured by the "basis weight test method" herein. The elastomeric film was ElastiPro (TM) 4407 available from Clopay, USA and had a basis weight of 53.5±1.2 gsm. The film comprises a width of 45mm in relaxed state. The film was stretched 130% strain (i.e., 45mm was stretched to about 104mm, including 7mm dead zones on each side), and in its stretched state, the width increased by about 4mm due to permanent deformation. In stretching the film as described above, the first nonwoven fabric and the second nonwoven fabric were ultrasonically bonded through the film using the bonding pattern shown in fig. 8 and an ultrasonic bonding pressure of 300N.

Example 5 of the invention

Embodiment 5 of the present invention includes a first nonwoven fabric and a second nonwoven fabric, and an elastomer film interposed between the first nonwoven fabric and the second nonwoven fabric. The first nonwoven and the second nonwoven were each 17gsm SMS available from Avgol, USA under the trade name AVMN 1048007001. The nonwoven had an average basis weight of 16. An average basis weight of 9±0.6gsm, as measured by the "basis weight test method" herein. The elastomeric film is ElastiPro available from Clopay, USA ^TM 4407 and has a basis weight of 53.5 + -1.2 gsm. The film comprises a width of 36mm in relaxed state. The film was stretched 130% strain (i.e., 36mm was stretched to about 83mm, including 7mm on each side)Dead zone) and in its stretched state the width increases by about 4mm due to permanent deformation. In stretching the film as described above, the first nonwoven fabric and the second nonwoven fabric were ultrasonically bonded through the film using the bonding pattern shown in fig. 8 and an ultrasonic bonding pressure of 300N.

The above exemplary ears were cut into samples having shapes that included the dimensions detailed in tables 1A and 1B below. The dimensions are shown schematically and not to scale in fig. 9. Examples 1,2,3 and 4 of the present invention were cut into "base" shapes, a shapes, B shapes, C shapes and D shapes. Example 1 of the present invention was also cut into shapes E and G. Example 5 of the present invention was cut into shape F. Embodiment 5 of the present invention with shape F is the same as embodiment 1 of the present invention with shape a except that the film width Y is smaller for embodiment 5 of the present invention. The sample is cut using a die that is shaped with a corresponding shape. The sample is cut to have inelastic regions on both lateral sides of the elastic region. Samples having shapes a through F were cut with inelastic regions of at least about 10mm as measured laterally inward from the outside edge 36. The sample having shape G is cut with an inelastic zone of at least about 10mm as measured laterally outward from the inboard edge 38.

In each shape, the first lateral side 40 intersects the outer side edge 36 of the first corner 37, and the first lateral side 40 intersects the inner side edge 38 of the second corner 39. The longitudinal distance Loff between the corners indicates the positioning of the fastening system (i.e., toward the top of the tab, the middle of the tab, etc.).

These exemplary samples were tested using the "tensile test method" herein to determine their "average breaking load," their "average elongation at 5N and 10N," and/or their "average breaking elongation.

The outside edge of the sample was mounted in the top clamp at position G1, which is located at distance X in tables 1A and 1B, which corresponds to the inside edge 52a of the fastener attachment bond 52 (see fig. 5). According to the "tensile test method", the bottom clamp is mounted at position G2 at a gauge distance of 55 mm.

TABLE 1A-release example

In table 1A, the length is measured along a line perpendicular to the lateral centerline 43 and the width is measured along a line parallel to the lateral centerline.

Tape 1B-scale

The "basic shape" includes the dimensions of the back ear commonly used in known diapers. The shapes a, D, E and F have the same "length ratio". However, the shapes differ in scale, film width, and/or tilt angle. Because of the different alpha and/or beta angles and/or the different film widths Y, as can be seen below, the stress reinforcement will be different for these shapes, with little to no impact on strength.

The effect of "length ratio" was studied with examples 1,2 and 3 of the present invention in shape "base", shape a, shape B and shape C table 2 shows the "average breaking load" of each example.

TABLE 2

As can be seen, the tab strength improves with a decrease in the "length ratio", even with a lower basis weight nonwoven. In fact, by reducing the "length ratio", an "average break load" (i.e., strength) value corresponding to a higher basis weight ear was obtained for an ear having a 10gsm nonwoven (inventive example 3). Further, each shows improved strength compared to the "base" shape, shape a, shape B, and shape C.

It is believed that the reinforcement angles (α, β) have little effect on the strength of the tab. Shape a and shape D have the same "length ratio" of 2.92. However, shape D has a higher strengthening angle. For examples 1 to 4 of the present invention, "breaking load" of these two shapes was tested, and the results are shown in the following table. The samples failed almost at the same "average breaking load" values as can be seen in table 3.

TABLE 3 Table 3

In addition to the above, example 1 of the present invention was cut into shape E, which had the same "length ratio" as shape a but a different strengthening angle. Also, the strengthening angle shows little effect on the strength (see table 4). In other words, the placement of the fastening system (e.g., toward the top of the tab versus the bottom of the tab) will not significantly affect the strength, provided that the "length ratio" is maintained.

TABLE 4 Table 4

Example 5 of the present invention was cut into shape F. Embodiment 5 of the present invention with shape F is the same as embodiment 1 of the present invention with shape a except that the film width Y is smaller for embodiment 5 of the present invention. As shown in Table 5, the film width Y shows almost no variation in the film thickness

Influence of intensity. However, the lower film width does reduce the overall extensibility of the tab.

TABLE 5

Although the examples differ in overall extensibility, all samples showed similar extensibility characteristics. Each of the embodiments of the present invention having any of the shapes a-G exhibits an extension of about 20mm or more at 5N and an extension of about 40mm or more at 10N.

In addition, table 6 also shows the strength differences between the SMS and SSS structures. Example 4 of the present invention was made with 12gsm SSS nonwoven on each side of the film. The removal of the meltblown layer showed an improvement in strength equivalent to a nonwoven with an SMS construction with a basis weight of 2-4gsm higher. As the "length ratio" decreases, the intensity of the SSS ear differs more significantly from the SMS ear. The "average breaking load" values for examples 1-4 of the present invention in shapes A-C are compared in Table 6 below and FIG. 10. As can be seen in fig. 10, embodiment 4 of the present invention is outside the trend line of each shape.

TABLE 6

Table 7 compares examples 1 and 3 of the present invention in shapes A and G. Shapes a and G have the same "length ratio". However, during testing, shape G is clamped within the elastic region. As can be seen, the "average breaking load" value is lower when the sample is clamped in the inelastic zone (i.e., shape a). However, when the sample is clamped at 1mm within the elastic region (shape G), the "average breaking load" improves by at least 10%, and in some cases by at least 40%.

TABLE 7

Packaging piece

The absorbent article 10 of the present disclosure may be placed into a package. The package may comprise a polymeric film and/or other materials. Graphics and/or indicia related to the characteristics of the absorbent article may be formed on, printed on, positioned on, and/or placed on the exterior portion of the package. Each package may comprise a plurality of absorbent articles. The absorbent articles may be stacked under compression to reduce the size of the packages while still providing a sufficient amount of absorbent articles per package. By packaging the absorbent article under compression, the caregiver can easily handle and store the package while also providing a dispensing savings to the manufacturer due to the size of the package.

Thus, according to the "in-bag stack height test" described herein, a package of absorbent articles of the present disclosure may have an "in-bag stack height" of less than about 110mm, less than about 105mm, less than about 100mm, less than about 95mm, less than about 90mm, less than about 85mm, less than about 80mm, less than about 78mm, less than about 76mm, less than about 74mm, less than about 72mm, or less than about 70mm, specifically enumerating all 0.1mm increments within the specified ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. Alternatively, the packages of absorbent articles of the present disclosure may have an "in-bag stack height" of about 70mm to about 110mm, about 70mm to about 105mm, about 70mm to about 100mm, about 70mm to about 95mm, about 70mm to about 90mm, about 70mm to about 85mm, about 72mm to about 80mm, or about 74mm to about 78mm, specifically enumerating all 0.1mm increments within the specified ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby.

Fig. 11 illustrates an exemplary package 1000 comprising a plurality of absorbent articles 1004. The package 1000 defines an interior space 1002 in which the plurality of absorbent articles 1004 are located. The plurality of absorbent articles 1004 are arranged in one or more stacks 1006.

Combination of two or more kinds of materials：

A. An absorbent article, comprising:

a first waist region, a second waist region, a crotch region disposed between the first waist region and the second waist region;

a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet; and

a discrete ear joined to the chassis and comprising:

a laminate comprising a first nonwoven and a second nonwoven and an elastomeric material sandwiched between the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven, wherein the laminate further comprises a plurality of ultrasonic bonds; and

wherein the first nonwoven and/or the second nonwoven comprises a basis weight of 17gsm or less; and is also provided with

Wherein the middle ear panel comprises an average breaking load of 18N or greater.

B. The absorbent article of paragraph a, wherein the ear panel comprises a first inelastic region and an elastic region, wherein the ear panel is joined to the chassis in the first inelastic region, and wherein the fastening system is joined to the ear panel in the elastic region.

C. The absorbent article of paragraph B, wherein the ear further comprises a second inelastic zone substantially opposite the first inelastic zone, and the fastening system is disposed in both the second inelastic zone and the elastic zone.

D. The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the ear panel comprises a "length ratio" of about 3 or less.

E. The absorbent article of paragraph D, wherein the "length ratio" is from about 1.5 to about 2.5.

F. The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the fastening element comprises an average breaking load of 24N or greater.

G. The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first nonwoven and/or the second nonwoven comprises a basis weight of 14gsm or less.

H. The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first nonwoven and/or the second nonwoven consists essentially of a spunbond layer.

I. The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein an ear panel is disposed in the second waist region.

J. The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the ear panel comprises at least about

1.0m ³ /m ² "permeability value" per min.

K. The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the ear panel comprises an ear panel area and an elastic region having an elastic region area, wherein the elastic region area is about 80% or less of the total ear panel area.

The absorbent article according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven each comprise a basis weight of 14gsm or less, and wherein the average break load is

22N or greater.

The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven each consist essentially of a spunbond layer and have an average breaking load of 22N or greater.

N. an absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the middle ear panel is extensible at 5N

20mm or more.

The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first nonwoven and/or the second nonwoven has a basis weight of 12gsm or less.

The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the average break load is about 30N or greater.

The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the basis weight of the first nonwoven is different than the basis weight of the second nonwoven.

An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the middle ear panel is extensible at 10N

50mm or more.

The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the absorbent core comprises less than 10% by weight cellulosic fibers.

An absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising an elasticized waist feature.

U. a package comprising an absorbent article according to any one of the preceding paragraphs and having an "in-bag stack height" of less than about 110 mm.

The absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first nonwoven and/or the second nonwoven has a basis weight of 10gsm or less.

Test method

Tensile testing method

"tensile testing" is used to measure the strength of a sample at relatively high strain rates that are representative of the product application. The method uses a suitable tension tester such as MTS 810, or equivalent, available from MTS Systems corp. (Eden Prairie minn.), equipped with a servo hydraulic actuator capable of speeds exceeding 5m/s after 28mm of travel and approaching 6m/s after 40mm of travel. The tensile tester is equipped with a 50lb force transducer (e.g., available as product code 9712 b50 (50 lb) from KistlerNorth America (Amherst, N.Y)), and a signal conditioner with a dual mode amplifier (e.g., available as product code 5010 from KistlerNorth America). The clamps shown in fig. 12 and 13 should be used to secure the sample during the tensile test. (FIG. 13 is a side view of one of the clamps of FIG. 12 with material 505 to prevent slippage.) the opposing clamp 500 may have the same width as specified or a different width.

(a) Clamping piece

The wire clamp 500 is selected to provide a well-defined gauge length and avoid excessive slip. The sample is positioned such that it has minimal slack between the clamps. The apex 507 of the clamp 500 is ground to give good gauge length clarity while avoiding damage or cutting of the sample. The apex is ground to provide a radius in the range of 0.5-1.0 mm. A portion of one or both clamps 500 may be configured to include a material 505 that reduces the tendency of the sample to slip, (e.g., a urethane or neoprene sheet having a shore a hardness between 50 and 70), as shown in fig. 13. Unless specified otherwise, a six inch wide top clamp and bottom clamp were used to clamp the sample.

(b) "tensile test" of samples from absorbent articles "

The ear panels are typically bonded to the chassis via thermal bonding or adhesive bonding or similar bonding methods. The tab should be separated from the chassis in the following manner: the tab is not damaged and the performance of the tab is not changed. If the chassis bond is too strong (i.e., the tab will be damaged when removed), the portion of the chassis bonded to the tab should be cut into the chassis material, but not damage the tab. The folded fastening system (e.g., a peel strip covering the fastening elements) should be unfolded.

The sample is clamped in the top clamp at a first clamping position G1, which is the inside edge 52a of the fastener attachment bond 52 (see fig. 5). The holding line G1 is kept parallel to the longitudinal centre line of the product. If the fastener attachment bond is angled, the sample is clamped at the center of the bond area and the clamping line is held parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the product at the center. The width of the top clamp should be equal to the maximum length (L1) of the fastener attachment bond 52 measured parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the article. If at the G1 position the sample length is the same as the maximum length of the fastener attachment bond, any grip width that is greater than the sample length at G1 may be used. The sample is mounted and suspended from the top clamp. The opposite edge 38 of the sample is mounted in the bottom clamp in a relaxed state. The bottom clamping position G2 is adjusted such that the sample is clamped at the outer edge 35b of the chassis bond. If the chassis bond is curvilinear, the sample is clamped at the outboard edge of the outermost bond. The bottom clip is greater than the length of the tab at the second clip position G2. The top and bottom clamps are parallel to each other.

The samples were tested as follows: the vertical distance (perpendicular to the clamping line) from the first clamping position G1 to the second clamping position G2 was measured using a ruler to a precision of 0.1mm and used as a gauge length for the test. Testing the sample at a test speed ofThe test speed provides 9.1sec at the gauge length selected for the sample ^-1 Is a strain rate of (a). By taking 9.1sec ^-1 The test speed in mm/sec is calculated by multiplying the gauge length in mm. A relaxation of 5mm was set between the clamps prior to testing.

Each sample was pulled to fracture. During testing, one of the clamps is held stationary and the opposing clamp is moved. The force data and actuator displacement data generated during the test were recorded using MOOG SmarTEST ONE STO03014-205 independent controllers, with the data acquisition frequency set to 1kHz. The resulting load data can be expressed as breaking load in newtons. "elongation" (mm) at 5N and 10N was also recorded. A total of, for example, five (5) samples were run. The "average breaking load" and standard deviation of at least 4 samples, the "average extension" and standard deviation at 5N, and the "average extension" and standard deviation at 10N are recorded. If the recorded standard deviation is higher than 5%, a new set of five samples is run.

(c) "Length ratio"

According to the previous step, the clamping member is positioned at a first clamping position and a second clamping position. The ratio of the sample length at the second clamping position (L2) to the maximum length (L1) of the bond is the "length ratio". The corresponding length was measured using a ruler to the nearest 0.1mm.

Basis weight testing method

The weight of each sample was weighed to within + -0.1 milligrams using a digital balance. The sample length and width were measured to be within + -0.1 mm using a digital vernier caliper or equivalent. All tests were performed at 22.+ -. 2 ℃ and 50.+ -. 10% relative humidity. Basis weights were calculated using the following formula.

To calculate the basis weight of the substrate, a total of 8 at least 10mm x 25mm straight line samples were used.

The average basis weight and standard deviation are recorded.

Nonwoven fabric samples were obtained from the ears as follows. The sample should be taken from an area without additional material (i.e., with only nonwoven). Each nonwoven layer of the ear panel is separated from the other without damaging or tearing the nonwoven layer. If a continuous nonwoven covers the outer inelastic zone and the inner inelastic zone of the ear, the nonwoven is separated from the inelastic zone and used as a sample. If the nonwoven layer is not separable from the other ear layers, the sample is collected from the outside inelastic zone of the ear. If the outer inelastic zone is smaller than the specified sample dimensions or has additional material (not a nonwoven layer) and if the inner inelastic zone has the same nonwoven as the outer inelastic zone, then samples are collected from the inner inelastic zone (a combination of nonwoven layers or nonwoven layers). If the nonwoven layers in the inelastic regions are the same and/or inseparable, the calculated sample basis weights are divided by the number of nonwoven layers to obtain the individual nonwoven basis weights.

Hysteresis test method

Hysteresis tests may be used for various specified strain values. "hysteresis test" utilizes a commercial tensile tester (e.g., from Instron Engineering Corp. (Canton, mass.), SINTECH-MTS Systems Corporation (Eden Prairie, MN) or equivalent) interfaced to a computer. The computer is used to control the test speed and other test parameters and to collect, calculate and report the data. These tests were carried out under laboratory conditions of 23 ℃ ± 2 ℃ and 50% ± 2% relative humidity. The samples were conditioned for 24 hours prior to testing.

The samples were cut to have the following dimensions: 10mm in the intended direction of stretch of the ear panel x 25.4mm in the direction perpendicular to the intended direction of stretch of the ear panel. Samples were collected from inelastic regions or from elastic regions.

Test protocol

1. Appropriate clamps and load sensors are selected. The holder must have a flat surface and must be wide enough to hold the sample along its full width. In addition, the clamp should also provide sufficient force and a suitable surface to ensure that the sample does not slip during testing. The load cell is selected such that the tensile response of the sample under test is between 25% and 75% of the capacity of the load cell used.

2. The tester was calibrated according to the manufacturer's instructions.

3. The distance between the clamps (gauge length) was set to 7mm.

4. The sample is placed in the flat surface of the holder such that the uniform width is along a direction perpendicular to the gauge length direction. The sample is held in the upper clamp, allowed to hang loosely, and then the lower clamp is closed. The relaxation preload was set at 5 grams/force. This means that data collection starts when the slack is removed with a force of 5 grams force at a constant collet speed of 13 mm/min. Based on the adjusted gauge length (l _ini ) To calculate the strain, the adjusted gauge length is the sample length between the clamps of the tensile tester at a force of 5 grams force. The adjusted gauge length is taken as the initial sample length and corresponds to a strain of 0%. In the test, the percent strain at any point is defined as the change in length relative to the adjusted gauge length divided by the adjusted gauge length multiplied by 100.

5 (a) first cyclic loading: the sample was pulled to 100% strain at a constant collet speed of 70 mm/min. Reporting the tensile sample length between clamps as l _max 。

5 (b) first cycle unloading: the sample was held at 100% strain for 30 seconds and then the collet was returned to its starting position (0% strain or initial sample length l) at a constant collet speed of 70mm/min _ini ). The sample was kept in an unstrained state for 1 minute.

5 (c) second cyclic loading: the sample was pulled to 100% strain at a constant collet speed of 70 mm/min.

5 (d) second cycle unloading: the sample was then held at 100% strain for 30 seconds, and then the collet was returned to its starting position (i.e., 0% strain) at a constant collet speed of 70 mm/min.

During testing, the computer data system recorded the force exerted on the sample as a function of the strain exerted. From the resulting data generated, the following magnitudes are reported.

i. Sample length between clamps under a relaxed preload of 5 gram-force (l _ini ) Accurate to 0.001mm.

Sample length between clamps on the first cycle at 100% strain (l _max ) Accurate to 0.001mm.

Sample length between clamps at a second cyclic loading force of 7 g-force (l _ext ) Accurate to 0.001mm.

Permanent set, defined as (l) _ext -l _ini )/(l _max -l _ini ) 100% accurate to 0.01%.

The test was repeated for six independent samples and the mean and standard deviation were reported.

Air permeability test

The air permeability of the ear laminate or substrate (e.g., film, nonwoven, or article component) is determined by: the flow of standard conditioned air through the test sample driven by the specified pressure drop is measured. The test is particularly applicable to materials having relatively high permeability to gases, such as nonwoven fabrics, apertured ear laminates, and the like. ASTM D737 was used, modified as follows.

TexTest FX 3300 instruments or equivalent available from Textest AG, switzerland or Advanced Testing Instruments ATI, spartanburg SC, USA were used. The procedure described for the tightness test, function and calibration check in the operating instructions following the TEXTEST FX 3300 air permeability test machine manual. If different instruments are used, similar settings are made for the tightness and calibration according to the manufacturer's instructions.

The sample is tested while the sample is in a relaxed state.

The test pressure drop was set to 125 pascals and the 38.3cm was used ² An area test head (model FX 3300-5) or equivalent. The result is recorded to a three-digit significant number. The average of 5 samples was calculated and recorded as the air permeability value (m ³ /m ² /min)。

In-bag stack height test

The in-bag stack height of the package of absorbent articles is determined as follows:

apparatus and method for controlling the operation of a device

A thickness tester with a flat rigid horizontal slide was used. The thickness tester is configured such that the horizontal slide is free to move in a vertical direction, with the horizontal slide always remaining in a horizontal orientation directly above the flat rigid horizontal substrate. The thickness tester includes suitable means for measuring the gap between the horizontal slide and the horizontal base plate to within + -0.5 mm. The horizontal slide and the horizontal base plate are larger than the surface of the absorbent article package contacting each plate, i.e. each plate extends beyond the contact surface of the absorbent article package in all directions. The horizontal slide applies a downward force of 850±1 gram force (8.34N) to the absorbent article package, which can be achieved by: the appropriate weight was placed on the center of the horizontal slide plate that did not contact the top surface of the package such that the total mass of the slide plate plus the added weight was 850±1 grams.

Test protocol

Prior to measurement, the absorbent article packages were equilibrated at 23±2 ℃ and 50±5% relative humidity.

The horizontal slide is lifted and the absorbent article package is placed centrally under the horizontal slide in such a way that the absorbent articles within the package are in a horizontal orientation (see fig. 11). Any handles or other packaging structures on the surface of the package that contact any of the plates are folded flat against the surface of the package in order to minimize their impact on the measurement. The horizontal slide is slowly lowered until it contacts the top surface of the package and then released. Ten seconds after releasing the horizontal slide plate, the gap between the horizontal plates was measured to within + -0.5 mm. Five identical packages (same size packages and same number of absorbent articles) were measured and the arithmetic average was reported as package width. The "stack height in pouch" = (package width/number of absorbent articles per stack) ×10, accurate to within ±0.5mm, was calculated and reported.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Rather, unless otherwise indicated, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40mm" is intended to mean "about 40mm".

Each document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or patent application, and any patent application or patent for which this application claims priority or benefit from, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to the present invention, or that it is not entitled to any disclosed or claimed herein, or that it is prior art with respect to itself or any combination of one or more of these references. Furthermore, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. An absorbent article, the absorbent article comprising:

a first waist region (14), a second waist region (18), a crotch region (16) disposed between the first waist region and the second waist region;

a chassis (20) comprising a topsheet (24), a backsheet (26), and an absorbent core (28) disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet; and

a discrete ear (30) joined to the chassis and comprising:

a laminate comprising a first nonwoven (300) and a second nonwoven (302) and an elastomeric film (304) sandwiched between the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven, wherein the laminate further comprises a plurality of ultrasonic bonds (46), and wherein the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven are ultrasonically bonded to the elastomeric film when the elastomeric film is in a stretched state; and

wherein the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven each comprise a basis weight of 17gsm or less; and is also provided with

Wherein the tab comprises an average breaking load of 18N or greater;

a fastening system (48) is joined to the tab at a fastener attachment bond (52), wherein the tab comprises a "length ratio" of 1.75 to 3, and

Wherein the ear panel comprises a first inelastic region (308) and an elastic region (306), wherein the ear panel is joined to the chassis in the first inelastic region.

2. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the fastening system is joined to the ear panel in the elastic region.

3. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the ear panel further comprises a second inelastic region (310) substantially opposite the first inelastic region, and the fastening system is disposed in both the second inelastic region and the elastic region.

4. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the fastening system comprises a fastening element comprising an average breaking load of 22N or greater.

5. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the fastening system overlaps the elastic region by a maximum lateral overlap distance that is 5% of the maximum width of the elastic region.

6. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first nonwoven and/or the second nonwoven consists essentially of a spunbond layer.

7. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the ear panel is disposed in the second waist region.

8. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the ear panel comprises at least 1.0m ³ /m ² "permeability value" per min.

9. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the ear comprises a total ear area and an elastic region having an elastic region area, wherein the elastic region area is 80% or less of the total ear area.

10. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the ears are extensible 20mm or more at 5N and 50mm or more at 10N.

11. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first nonwoven and/or the second nonwoven has a basis weight of 12gsm or less.

12. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the average break load is 24N or greater.

13. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the basis weight of the first nonwoven is different from the basis weight of the second nonwoven.

14. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first nonwoven and/or the second nonwoven has a basis weight of 10gsm or less.

15. The absorbent article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the laminate lacks an adhesive.